7 Tremendous Tidal Pools Hiding In Maine You’ll Want To Check Out This Summer

One of the most recognizable things in Maine is the stunning coast. It's rough and rocky in areas, with stretches of sandy beaches mixed in as well. It's also got some of the most dramatic tidal changes in the US, making for some impressive changes to the coastal landscape two times every day. It's these tidal variations that create tide pools. Left behind when the water moves back out to the ocean, critters, and creatures are often found here in these little Maine tide pools. Exploring them makes for a fun few hours for both children and adults. To explore these for yourself check out this list that tells you where to find the best tide pools in Maine.

1. Schoodic Peninsula, Winter Harbor

The Schoodic Peninsula is just east of Acadia, in Winter Harbor. You'll have great views of the island that you can't have when you're ON the island and there are also some incredible places to find tide pools. There are two main places -- West Pool and East Pool. West Pool is the first you'll come to when driving around the loop. The pool here will reveal crabs, starfish, and even sea urchins. East Pool is located at Blueberry Hill and has a shallow pool where you can find sand dollars.

2. Ogunquit Beach, Ogunquit

Ogunquit Beach is a great way to come with kids. These Maine tide pools here are gentle and easy to find. Visit the Ogunquit Riverbed as well.

3. Potts Point Preserve, Harpswell

You'll just about miss this island in Casco Bay that almost completely disappears at high tide. But at low tide, you'll find fun Maine tide pools, beautiful little sand beaches, tiny marshes, and wildflowers. The views of the boats that travel between Merriconeag Sound and Potts Harbor are also worth the trip. Here you'll also find clams.

Take a look at this video by @harpswellheritagelandtrust6629:

4. Ocean Point Walk, Boothbay

The Ocean Point Preserve area was once a summery colony, and today it's home to one of the loveliest inns in Maine. The walking path is maintained by the Ocean Point Association. This is one of the best tidal pools in Maine to be at super low tide when the pools fill with starfish and crabs.

Take a look at this video by @josesaerialvistas8472:

5. Pemaquid Point, Pemaquid

The Pemaquid Lighthouse is one of the most-photographed lighthouses in Maine, but there's a reason to visit beyond just the light. Time your visit for low tide and you're likely to find tidal pools in Maine with pink coralline algae and lots of other minuscule sea life.

6. The Rachel Carson Salt Pond Preserve, Bristol

This is the place where naturalist Rachel Carson gathered specimens for the research to write her book, "Edge of the Sea." The tidepool area here is only about a quarter acre, but it's great for easy exploration. It's also a great way to introduce kids to the beauty of discovering the coast.

Take a look at this video by @mattdroneson:

7. Giant's Stairs, Harpswell

This coastal area looks out over eastern Casco Bay. There's a short, easy trail that follows the edge making for fairly easy access to some beautiful Maine tide pools. Be careful here as waves can be a bit daunting. Best to make sure you've got lots of time on either end of the trip to avoid running into high tide.

Have you visited any of the best tide pools in Maine? After you've explored the coast, head inland to enjoy Maine's lakes and rivers. One of the most fun ways to do that is this all-day float trip in Maine!